Chinese export art holds a unique place in the world of collectibles, embodying a fascinating blend of Eastern aesthetics and Western tastes. From the 16th to the 19th century, as global trade flourished, artisans in China produced exquisite works tailored for export to Europe and America. These pieces, prized for their beauty and craftsmanship, continue to captivate collectors and connoisseurs today.
The earliest Chinese artifacts found in Europe can be dated back to the 9 or 10th century. Porcelain was initially only available for royal courts during the 16th century, through means of diplomatic gifts and on occasion, they were commissioned. Access became more widespread during the 18th century when more export items were made and sent into the European market. It was not until the 19th and early 20th century that collecting export items, and also traditional Chinese taste ceramics and works of art became a fashion.
Among the most sought-after categories of Chinese export art is porcelain. Famously durable, with wide varieties suiting different tastes, export porcelain was highly valued by European aristocrats and merchants. In this auction, we can experience pieces made during the height of Qing dynasty to pieces that were appropriated by European merchants to fit the local taste, and to objects made solely for export.
Terms used to categorize porcelain made with enamel decorations was introduced by Frenchman Albert Jacquemart during the 18th century, in which the most well-known was famille rose and famille verte. The technique was thought to have been brought in by Western Jesuits who visited and worked at the royal court during the Kangxi reign. In this auction, we see a rare example of a famille noir dish dating back to the Kangxi period, an era of when the black palette was introduced.
Another excellent example embodying east meets west, a punchbowl on gilded mounts. Punchbowls were specifically made for export, and as the name suggests, to serve a popular drink in Western society at the time. The form is influenced by traditional Chinese porcelain ware, and designs began to alter when demands in the West increased. The bowl itself would have been made in China, and upon arriving in Europe, merchants would set the pieces onto gilded mounts to fit local taste. To find out more about the fashion of collecting Chinese porcelain in the West, Stephane Castelluccio’s book “Collecting Chinese and Japanese Porcelain in Pre-revolutionary Paris” would provide an excellent overview.
Further to porcelain, export works of art were also produced in metalware, lacquer, and glass etc. A more distinctive material amongst them would be cloisonne enamel. Made on a bronze or copper body the surface would be divided into detailed compartments with thin metal wires, after which the compartments would be filled with vibrantly coloured enamel paste and finished with firing. The signature blue is also known as Jingtai Blue, developed during the Ming dynasty Jingtai period, and became a prominent colour used in cloisonne enamel works of art. European taste was incorporated into this category as the appetite widened beyond the demand for porcelain, as exemplified by the pair of cloisonne enamel birds in this auction.
The longstanding appeal of Chinese export art is a testament to the extensive cultural exchange between China and Europe, capturing the essence of exceptional craftsmanship, evolving consumer tastes, and the shifting dynamics of the global economy over centuries. These works not only reflect the ingenuity of Chinese artisans but also the diverse influence of the Western markets. Apollo Art Auctions is proud to play a part in celebrating and promoting this remarkable exchange, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.
As part of our continuous growth, we are thrilled to announce the department of Asian Art has expanded and we proudly present a curated selection of Asian treasures in our 14th December Fine Islamic, Indian and Chinese sale, featuring exceptional works spanning from Nepalese Buddhist sculptures, Neolithic pottery, to Song dynasty tea culture pieces, and a selection of Ming and Qing dynasty works of art.
We would also like to take this opportunity to invite consignments of Asian pieces to feature in our upcoming auctions. Whether you are a private collector, dealer, or art enthusiast, Apollo Art Auctions offers an unmatched platform to maximize the value of your collection. Please feel free to contact us at enquiries@apolloauctions.com for further information.
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